While bats can benefit the environment, they can also pose health risks and damage property when they inhabit homes. Bats can carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis, a lung infection caused by inhaling spores from their droppings (guano). The noise and odor from their presence can also be disruptive, so it's essential to address bat infestations quickly.

All bat species are protected by law, so it's crucial to contact professional bat control services if you suspect an infestation. Experienced bat control experts can safely and humanely facilitate the removal of bats from your property, clean up any contamination, and take preventive measures to help prevent future infestations.

Signs of a bat problem

Bats can be attracted to dark, quiet areas in homes, such as attics, that offer shelter, along with nearby food sources like insects and fruit. If you suspect there may be bats roosting in your home, there are several signs you can look for to help confirm their presence, including:

  • Noises at dusk or dawn, such as chirping or squeaking.

  • Dark stains or droppings around entry points or roosting areas.

  • A strong, musky odor concentrated in specific areas.

  • Sightings of bats entering or exiting openings in your home.

If you have bats in or around your home, don't try to remove them yourself. Call a bat control professional to safely and humanely evict the bats.

Common types of bats

Effective bat removal requires identifying the specific species present. Different species have unique behaviors and preferred roosting sites, which can require various bat control methods. Here are some common bat species you may encounter:

Little brown bats

Little brown bats are smaller, with a wingspan of eight to ten inches and dark brown to golden brown fur. They prefer dark, secluded spaces like attics and tree hollows.

Big brown bats

These medium-sized bats have a wingspan of 13-16 inches and glossy brown fur. Big brown bats are common throughout the US and often roost in buildings.

Mexican free-tailed bats

Mexican free-tailed bats are medium-sized with long, narrow wings and a distinctive tail. They are typically found in the southern US and Mexico and roost in caves or buildings.

What to expect with Terminix bat control

At Terminix, we specialize in humane bat removal and control. Our experienced technicians follow a four-step process to safely and effectively facilitate the removal of bats from your home. Here's how it works:

  1. Inspection & identification: Our team will inspect your home to identify signs of bat infestation and potential entry points.

  2. Eviction & exclusion: Based on your technician's findings, they will safely and humanely evict the bats from your home and use bat exclusion techniques to close potential entry points.

  3. Clean-up: If necessary, your technician will clean up the area where the bats were roosting and remove any guano left behind as an additional service.

  4. Annual monitoring: We also offer optional monitoring services to help ensure your home remains protected from bats.

Help deter bats with Terminix exclusion services

Exclusion is vital in controlling bats and other wildlife because it helps prevent them from returning to your home. If bats can still access your house, they may find their way back and create a recurring problem. Terminix uses Flexi Armour™ products to form a tight seal that deters bats from re-entering while still allowing for proper ventilation and airflow. Flexi Armour products are durable and flexible, making them easy to install around openings such as eaves, vents, and chimneys, which are common entry points for bats.

Call in the professionals

When it comes to bat removal and control, it’s always best to hire a professional. At Terminix, our bat exterminators will thoroughly inspect your home to identify signs of bat infestation and potential entry points, ensuring a comprehensive solution. Unlike DIY methods, we adhere to safety standards and legal regulations surrounding bat control–such as seasonality restrictions–as all bat species are protected under state and federal laws. With our effective bat exclusion techniques and eviction strategies, you can trust Terminix to handle your bat concerns responsibly and effectively.